Making a Difference...

VBS (Vacation Bible School) starts tomorrow at my church. I am in charge of overseeing all of the teen volunteers helping with the little ones for the week. While planning my devotions for our group, I came across this quote that I have seen many times, but it's always a good reminder...

"Fifty years from now it will not matter:
What Kind of car you drove,
What kind of house you lived in,
How much you had in your bank account,
Nor what your clothes looked like.
But, the world will be a little bit better because YOU were important in the life of a child."
~ anonymous

There are a lot of different versions of this, I think first attributed to a Boy Scout master. I chose this version to share with the teens tomorrow, and thought I'd pass along here, too. Have a great week, and remember that you ARE making a difference!!!

Blessings,
The Buzz


Monday, June 17

• The Cornelius library presents A Walk in the Woods this afternoon at 2pm for school-aged children. More info...
• Head to the North County library today at 3:30pm for Afternoon Adventures: Gardening and Seed Exchange. More info...
• It's time again for the Jack in the Box Summer Shootout at Charlotte Motor Speedway at 5pm. Don't miss the school bus races tonight!! More info...
• Plan a night out to enjoy An Evening with Dorothea Benton Frank at Imaginon tonight at 7:30pm. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Syracuse More info...

Tuesday, June 18

• Don't miss Terrific Tuesdays: Flow Circus today at Imaginon at 11am and 1pm. More info...
• Rising Kindergartners are invited to Get Set 4 Kindergarten today at the South County library at 12:15pm. More info...
• Learn all about Cave Art this afternoon at 2pm at the Myers Park library. More info...
• Or head to the Plaza Midwood library this afternoon at 2pm for Just Dig It! More info...
• Experience a hands-on science program at the Independence library at 3pm and 4pm during Discovery Place: Oceans. Space is limited. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Syracuse More info...

Wednesday, June 19

• Kannapolis' Village Park is the place to be today at 10:30am for a performance with Farmer Jason. More info...
• Don't miss Discovery Place Kids' Wonderful Wednesday: A Bug's Eye View today at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Check out the Museum of York County's Wonderful Wednesday Family Film: Ice Age at 12noon. More info...
• Head to the North County library at 2pm for Rookie Science: Radical Reptiles. Please register. More info...
• Elementary aged students are invited to experience The Carolina Raptor Center at the South County library today and tomorrow at 3pm. Registration required. More info...
• Space is limited to hear Beth Hutchison, Storyteller this afternoon at 3pm at the Matthews Library. Please register. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Syracuse More info...

Thursday, June 20

• Kannapolis hosts Thursdays on Main today 11:30am-1pm with The Raisin' Cain Band at Veteran's Park. More info...
• Head to the University City library at 2pm for Tent Tales. More info...
• The Independence library hosts A Walk in the Woods: Reefs and Sharks this afternoon at 3pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra plays tonight as part of Pineville's Rockin' & Reelin' Concert & Movie Series. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Syracuse More info...

Friday, June 21

• Today through Sunday, Meet Dora & Diego at Tweetsie. More info...
• Don't miss Afternoon Adventures: Digging for Ye Olde Pirate Treasure this afternoon at 2pm at the University City Library. More info...
• Head to the McDowell Nature Center this evening at 7pm for the Family Campfire. More info...
• Or check out Latta Plantation Nature Center's Summer Solstice Bonfire Celebration at 7:30pm. More info...
• See The Lorax tonight at Village Park in Kannapolis as part of their Movies in the Park Series. More info...
• Charlotte Eagles vs. Tampa More info...

Saturday, June 22

• Lace up your shoes for the Skirt Sports Skirt Chaser 5K this morning at Freedom Park. More info...
• Don't miss Living History Saturday: Gold Panning today at Latta Plantation. 10am-4pm. More info...
• The Latta Plantation Nature Center hosts Family Geocaching this morning at 10:30am. More info...
• Check out Family Storytime this morning at 11am at the Morrison library. More info...
• Discovery Place Kids hosts Bug Beats today at 11am and 2pm, and tomorrow at 2pm. More info...
• Head to Reedy Creek Nature Center this afternoon at 1pm to take park in a Space Odyssey. More info...
• Be sure to register for the McDowell Nature Center's Nature's Artists this afternoon at 3:30pm. More info...
• Kannapolis hosts Stories Under the Stars with a performance of The Secret Garden tonight at 7pm at the Kannapolis Library. More info...
• The Matthews Concert and Movie Series features the The Coasters (Carolina Beach Music)tonight at Stumptown Park. More info...
• Carolina Place Mall kicks off their Movies at the Mall series tonight with Oz The Great and Powerful. More info...
• Charlotte Hounds vs. Chesapeake Bayhawks More info...
• Lady Eagles vs. Tampa More info...

Sunday, June 23

• Head to the Schiele Museum today to learn more about The Dyers Craft. 1-5pm. More info...
• Learn to Build Your Own Box Oven this afternoon at the Latta Plantation Nature Center at 2pm. More info...
• Don't miss the Ag & Art Tour today. More info...
• The Charlotte Symphony presents Scores of Movie Music tonight at Symphony Park at Southpark. More info...
• Charlotte Roller Girls All Stars vs. Soul City Roller Girls More info... 
• Charlotte Roller Girls B-Dazzlers vs. Kannapolis Roller Girls More info... 

Save the Date:
June 22-July 17: Movies at the Mall More info...
June 29: African Safari Day More info...
June 29: Mint Museum Community Wellness Day More info...
July 12-14: Meet SpongeBob & Patrick @ Tweetsie More info...
July 16: The Greatest Journey More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.

Disney Bound...with Help Around the Mouse

www.helparoundthemouse.com

In the morning we head to Disney...me, the three kids and the husband...in the minivan. I am super excited, and I think the kids are, too (we just told them today). I am excited about it now, because I am not stressed about it at all (except for that car ride in the minivan part). Why I am not stressed?? Because I'm taking along help in the form of an Itinerary and Trip Plans from Help Around the Mouse. If you are even considering Disney anytime in the next year, you MUST contact Help Around the Mouse. I made hotel and character meal reservations 6 months ago...and then totally stopped planning. Two weeks ago I panicked, and called Judy at Help Around the Mouse. In two weeks, she created a park plan for our family based on detailed information about us, and the wealth of knowledge she has about WDW. I am sure that she would prefer that you give her more than 2 weeks notice like I did, but she is amazing!! Check out Help Around the Mouse on Facebook to stay up to date on all things Disney, and I do hope you'll reach out to them if/when you start planning your trip!!

Blessings,
The Buzz

Monday, June 10

• Kids Club Central at The Epicentre presents their Children's Summer Movie Series at Studio Movie Grill. Weekdays at 11am. More info...
• Head to the Independence library this afternoon at 3pm for Afternoon Adventures: Board Games. More info...
• It's time again for the Jack in the Box Summer Shootout at Charlotte Motor Speedway at 5pm. Don't miss the school bus races tonight!! More info...

Tuesday, June 11

• It just wouldn't be summer without a Storytime Cruise on the Catawba Queen. Cruises kick off today, and are Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Reservations recommended. More info... 
• Regal Summer Movie Express kicks off today with FREE movies at area theaters. More info... 
• Head to the Mountain Island library today at 1pm to Dig Into Reading. More info...
• Check out the Morrison library's Summer Reading Kickoff this afternoon at 3:30pm featuring Professor Whizzpop. More info...
• Today is a FREE Tuesday sponsored by Duke Energy at the Schiele Museum, 4-8pm. More info...

Wednesday, June 12

• Don't miss Wonderful Wednesday: Edible Insects today at Discovery Place Kids at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Elementary aged students are invited to Imaginon today at 11am and 2pm for Drama Rama. More info...
• Head to the Scaleybark library this afternoon at 2pm for Predators From the Sky with the Carolina Raptor Center. More info...

Thursday, June 13

• Don't miss Little Engineers this morning at 10am at the Bette Rae Thomas Recreation Center. More info...
• Ages 5 to 12 are invited to the FREE Drop-In Day Camp at the Gaston County Museum at 10:30am. More info...
• Elementary ages are invited again to Imaginon for Story Explorers today at 11:30am and 2:30pm. More info...
• Check out the fun at the Independence library during Charlotte Mecklenburg Library presents: Gem Mining with the Schiele Museum today at 3:00 and 4:00pm. More info...
• Ages 5 to 8 are invited to Winghaven Gardens to create A Father's Day Gift this afternoon at 3:30pm. More info...
• Head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center tonight at 7pm for a Family Evening Hike. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Columbus Clippers More info...

Friday, June 14

• The McDowell Nature Center hosts the Preschool Pioneer Series this morning at 10:30am. Today's topic is "Worm Wonders". More info...
• Celebrate Flag Day today at 11am and 2pm at Discovery Place Kids. More info...
• Imaginon hosts Rookie Science today at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• The North County library is showing A Land Before Time today at 12noon. More info...
• Head to the Family Campfire this evening at 7pm at the McDowell Nature Center. More info...
• Check out the Gaston County Museum's Blues Out Back Concert Series. Tonight's performer is Big Ron Hunter. 6:30pm and FREE! More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Columbus Clippers More info...
• Charlotte Eagles vs. Chicago Reserves More info...

Saturday, June 15

• Don't miss the Tri Latta Triathlon this morning at Latta Plantation Park. More info...
• Lace up your shoes for the Brew Dash 6K this morning at the US National Whitewater Center. More info...
• Make some Nature Art this morning at 10am at the Reedy Creek Nature Center. More info...
• Check out the Charlotte Nature Museum's Farm Day today 10am-1pm. More info...
• Today and tomorrow you can Build-A-Bug at Discovery Place Kids. Today at 11am and 2pm, and tomorrow at 2pm. More info... 
• The Scaleybark library hosts a Father's Day Family Storytime this morning at 11am. More info...
• The Reedy Creek Nature Centers hosts a Meet & Greet with Live Animals this afternoon at 2pm. More info...
• Head to Freedom Park for jazz under the stars featuring Nnenna Frelon and The Branford Marsalis Quartet. More info...
• The Matthews Concert and Movie Series features the film The Odd Life of Timothy Green tonight at Stumptown Park. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Columbus Clippers More info...
• Charlotte Lady Eagles vs. Dayton More info...
• Charlotte Hounds vs. Boston Cannons More info...

Sunday, June 16 - Father's Day

• Don't miss the Lake Wylie Family Kayak Tour this afternoon at 1:30pm at the McDowell Nature Center. More info...
• Celebrate Father's Day today at Discovery Place Kids at 2pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Symphony presents A Summer Pops Fantasia tonight at Symphony Park at Southpark. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Columbus Clippers More info...

Save the Date:
June 21-23: Meet Dora & Diego @ Tweetsie More info...
June 22-July 17: Movies at the Mall More info...
June 23: Ag & Art Tour More info...
June 29: African Safari Day More info...
June 29: Mint Museum Community Wellness Day More info...
July 12-14: Meet SpongeBob & Patrick @ Tweetsie More info...
July 16: The Greatest Journey More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.

Summer ‘blahs’? Try Summer tra- la las!

www.musictogetherofcharlotte.com

I attended MUSIC TOGETHER classes for years with my own three kids!   If you have kids birth to five, this program is a godsend. My oldest was a Music Together child, and he’s already playing violin at age 5. Some of my fondest memories are from those classes, and we still sing songs from the collections.

Music Together is a 30-year old, research based, early childhood music program whose mission is to bring music into everyday family life. The teachers are well-trained to make the class flow and be a lot of fun, and most families attend classes for multiple sessions.  

The summer session is a once-weekly 45-minute class for six weeks, starting
June 10. And, because of travel plans, they have a generous make-up policy so you needn’t worry about missing class.  Locations are in Dilworth, Lake Wylie, Davidson and South Charlotte.  ‘Like’ them on Facebook- they post interesting and funny items about music.

She Sells Sea Shells….

Blessings,

The Buzz


Monday, June 3

• Head over to the Reedy Creek Nature Center today for Budding Adventures at 10am. More info...
• Check out Barnes & Noble at Carolina Place and their Who's On First Storytime this morning at 10am. More info...
• FREE Library Storytimes are back after their May hiatus. Lots to choose from. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Rochester More info...

Tuesday, June 4

• Ages 3 to 5 are invited today AND tomorrow to Winghaven Gardens to enjoy Breakfast with the Birds at 10am. Please register. More info...
• Check out the McDowell Nature Center's McDowell Nature Detectives this morning at 10:30am. More info...
• Time's running out...this is the last week for Day Out with Thomas at Tweetsie. More info...

Wednesday, June 5

• Have an adventure with the kids at Dan Nicholas Park in Salisbury. Train rides, carousel, splash pad, gem mining and more await! More info...
• Head to the Schiele Museum to see Red Starr's Solar System Round Up at 11am and 3:30pm. More info...
• Discovery Place Kids hosts Wonderful Wednesday: Eric Carle's Creatures today at 11am and 2pm. More info...

Thursday, June 6

• The Elon Recreation Center hosts Baby Sign and Play with Little Hands in Motion at 10:30am. Please register. More info...
• The US National Whitewater Center's River Jam presents the Delta Saints in concert tonight. More info...

Friday, June 7

• LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR CMS!!!
• Head to Imaginon for Yoga Storytime this morning at 11:30am. More info...
• The Barnes & Noble at Carolina Place hosts a Charlie Brown Pajamarama Storytime this evening at 7pm. More info...
• Lace up your shoes for an evening run in the 2013 NoDa 5K beginning at 7pm. More info...
• Space is limited so register now for the Summer Campfire Kickoff tonight at the McDowell Nature Center. More info...
• And/or head to the McDowell Nature Center for a Nature at Night Hayride. Fun for the whole family! More info...
• Matthews Stumptown Park is the place to be for a Charlotte Symphony Concert as part of the Matthews Summer Concert & Movie Series. More info...

Saturday, June 8

• Lace up your shoes for the Lake Wylie Splash Dash, More info..., or the King Tiger 5K at University City. More info...
• The McDowell Nature Center hosts a Lake Wylie Family Kayak Tour this morning at 9am. More info...
• Head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center this morning at 9:30 for a Parent and Me Tot Trot. More info...
• Today is World Oceans Day. Celebrate with special events and activities all day at Discovery Place. More info...
• Check out Matthews Library's Every Child Ready to Read this morning at 10am. More info...
• Learn all about Spider Science today at 11am and 2pm at Discovery Place Kids. Tomorrow also at 2pm. More info...
• If your kids are into getting wet and dirty, head to the Wetland Critter Romp this afternoon at 1pm at the McDowell Nature Center. More info...
• Elementary ages are invited to the South County library for Zelnik the Magician at 3pm. Please register. More info...
• The US National Whitewater Center's River Jam presents Porch Dog Revival in concert tonight. More info...
• Charlotte Hounds vs. Ohio Machine More info...

Sunday, June 9

• The Mint Museum Uptown hosts Sunday Fun Day: Intergalactic Art Adventure, 1-4pm. More info...
• Head to the Latta Plantation Nature Center this afternoon at 2pm for Insectigations! More info...
• Join in the Stream Search this afternoon at 2pm at the Reedy Creek Nature Center. More info...
• Become one of Nature's Artists this afternoon at 3:30pm at the McDowell Nature Center. Please register. More info...
•  Summer Pops kicks off tonight at Southpark's Symphony Park. Tonight's concert is The Thrill of the Orchestra. Tickets available online, by phone or at the event. More info...

Save the Date:
June 11-August 6: Regal Summer Movie Express More info...
June 21-23: Meet Dora & Diego @ Tweetsie More info...
June 22-July 17: Movies at the Mall More info...
June 23: Ag & Art Tour More info...
July 12-14: Meet SpongeBob & Patrick @ Tweetsie More info...
July 16: The Greatest Journey More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.

Charlotte Warehouse Sale THIS Week...PLUS a Giveaway!!

www.charlottewarehousesale.com

Looking for great deals on NEW Women's and Children's name brand apparel and shoes? Look no further than this week's Charlotte Warehouse Sale. Thursday through Saturday now on Statesville Road in Cornelius (NEW location). Examples of some of the deals you can find are HERE, including the gorgeous Free People tank pictured above. Ralph Lauren, Vince Camuto, Coach, Calvin Klein, Cole Haan, Stride Rite and MORE! Over 5,000 items, just waiting for you!! Cash and credit/debit accepted and fitting rooms available, too. Don't miss out on this awesome "Shopportunity"!!!

To make it even better, The Queen City Buzz is giving away a $50 gift certificate to the Charlotte Warehouse Sale on our Facebook Page starting Monday morning. Enter by 9pm on Wednesday...drawing later that night!!

Blessings,
The Buzz


Monday, May 27

• Head to Symphony Park at Southpark for the Patriot Festival 2013, starting with a 5K, and events through the morning. More info...
• The Spraygrounds open today!!! Open daily 10am-8pm through Labor Day. More info...
• See The World's Funniest Animals today at the Schiele Museum. 10:30am and 2:30pm. More info...
• Check out LEGO Storytime today at Barnes & Noble's Arboretum location at 3pm. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Toledo More info...

Tuesday, May 28

• Carowinds is now open daily. Enjoy the fun at the "Thrill Capital of the Southeast". More info...
• Ages 3 to 5 are invited to Winghaven Gardens this morning at 10am for Flutter, Flutter...Fly, Fly. More info...
• Homeschoolers can head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center today at 1:30pm for Animals a la Mode: Animals All Around Us. More info...
• Head to the Tom Sykes Rec Center for LEGO Engineering this afternoon, 2:45-4pm. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Toledo More info...

Wednesday, May 29

• Head to Imaginon to see Arthur's World, on display through September 8th. Open today 10am-7pm. More info...
• Discovery Place Kids hosts Wonderful Wednesday: Colorful Chemistry today at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Toledo More info...

Thursday, May 30

• Head to the Mint Museum's Randolph location for Party in the Park starting at 6:30pm. Kids are FREE! Please register. More info...
• If you're in the Columbia area, tonight is the last installment of Rhythm and Blooms at the Riverbanks Zoo, 6-9pm. More info...
• The Honeycutters headline tonight's RiverJam at the US National Whitewater Center. More info... 
• Charlotte Knights vs. Toledo More info...

Friday, May 31

• Check out the McDowell Nature Center's Bird of a Feather this morning at 9:30am. More info...
• Day Out with Thomas kicks off today at Tweetsie Railroad, and runs through June 9th. More info...
• Don't miss Fantastic Friday today at Tom Sykes Rec Center at 2:45pm. More info...
• Head to Barnes & Noble at Carolina Place Mall for their Fabulous Friday Pajamarama Storytime at 7pm. Tonight's story is I Need My Monster. More info...
• Enjoy family fun time at the McDowell Nature Center's Prairie Hayride this evening at 7:15pm. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Rochester More info...

Saturday, June 1

• Lace up your shoes for the Race Against the Odds at Weddington United Methodist at 8am. More info...
• The Harris YMCA hosts the McCarthy Kids' Triathlon this morning for ages 3-12. More info...
• The Common Market and the Charlotte Roller Girls host a Hawaii-Themed Pancake Breakfast this morning 7:30-10:30am. More info...
• Head to Frank Lisk Park for Ducktona Dash 2013, benefiting Cabarrus Meals on Wheels. 10am-2pm. More info...
• Don't miss the Museum in Motion Festival today at the NC Transportation Museum in Spencer. More info...
• The McDowell Nature Center hosts The INVADERS! today at 10am. More info...
• Animal Grossology opens today at Discovery Place. More info...
• Historic Rosedale reenacts A Victorian Wedding today and tomorrow. More info...
• Today is the 3rd Annual One The Move Family Wellness Day at Chimney Rock State Park. 11am-3pm. More info...
• Don't miss Beach Blast 2013 today 2-10pm at Monroe Crossing Mall. More info...
• Learn about and participate in Paper Making today at 2pm at the Reedy Creek Nature Center. More info... 
• Take Steps for Crohn's and Colitis this afternoon at 3pm at Freedom Park. More info...
• RiverJam  is now on Saturday nights, too, at the US National Whitewater Center. Tonight's entertainment is Too Slim and the Taildraggers. More info...
• Head to Stumptown Park for Matthews Summer Concert and Movie Series. Tonight's movie is Hotel Transylvania. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Rochester More info...

Sunday, June 2

• Ages 5 to 14 are invited to participate in the Levine JCC Kids' Triathlon today at 1pm. More info... 
• Head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center for Survival 101: Reedy Creek this afternoon at 1:30pm. More info...
• Davidson hosts Concerts on the Green tonight 6-8pm. Featured tonight is Lake Norman Big Band. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Rochester More info...

Save the Date:
June 11-August 6: Regal Summer Movie Express More info...
June 21-23: Meet Dora & Diego @ Tweetsie More info...
June 22-July 17: Movies at the Mall More info...
June 23: Ag & Art Tour More info...
July 12-14: Meet SpongeBob & Patrick @ Tweetsie More info...
July 16: The Greatest Journey More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.

Nothing says "Summer" like Strawberries!!

www.hallfamilyfarm.com

 

And no one does strawberries like Hall Family Farm. I absolutely adore Hall Family Farm. Right past Ballantyne, we've been going for a few years now for strawberries in the spring/summer, and for pumpkins in the fall. They even do birthday parties, and my twins had a BLAST when they celebrated their second birthday at the Hall Family Farm pumpkin patch.

This year the weather has been tricky, but now the strawberry fields are looking GREAT, and the strawberries are delicious. Every day you can pick-your-own strawberries, take a hayride, check out the chickens, play in the awesome kids' area (sandbox, rubber duck races, tricycles, maze, etc.).

And I can't forget the smoothies and funnel cakes!! They also have a great farm stand with pre-picked berries, breads, honey, jellies, jams and more. If you are looking for a great family outing, Hall Family Farm is the place to be. They update daily on their Facebook Page about farm hours and field conditions, so be sure to "LIKE" them to stay up to date on what's happening at the farm.

Make it a great week!!

Blessings,
The Buzz

Monday, May 20

• Check out Barnes & Noble at Carolina Place for their Marvelous Monday Storytime at 10am. This morning's book is Super Ladybug to the Rescue. More info...
• Last one for the season...make a splash at Ray's Splash Planet's Parent and Tot Meet and Greet today 10am-3pm. More info...
• Check out the University City library's Mobile Learning Adventure today 10am-2pm. More info...
• Head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center this morning at 10am for Budding Adventures. More info...

Tuesday, May 21

• The Billy Graham Library hosts a new exhibit through June 30th. Don't miss Rooted in Prayer: Biblical Truths for Everyday Living. More info...
• Ages 11 to 14 are invited to the Latta Plantation Nature Center for Latta Homeschoolers: Bioluminescence at 1:30pm. More info...
• Don't miss Grow Caterpillar, Grow: LEGO Storytime at 4pm. Barnes & Noble at the Arboretum. Please register. More info...

Wednesday, May 22

• Head to the Main Library downtown to check out the Colonial Charlotte Diorama on loan from the Charlotte Museum of History. More info...
• If you have little ones ages 5 to 7, register them for Winghaven Gardens' Planting a Pizza this afternoon at 3:30pm. More info...
• Ages 8 to 11 are invited to Imaginon this afternoon for Wii U Gaming at 4pm. More info...

Thursday, May 23

• Join the Preschool Nature Club today at 10am for Where is our Soil Going? at the Latta Plantation Nature Center. More info...
• Food Lion Speedstreet kicks off in Uptown Charlotte today with lots of events and concerts through Saturday. More info...
• Head to the Tom Sykes Rec Center (Dilworth Elementary) this afternoon for Elmo Eats at 5:30pm. More info...
• The Community School of Davidson presents Little Shop of Horrors with shows through Saturday. More info... 
• Don't miss the Legends All Star Race this evening at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Children 13 and under get in FREE with a paying adult. More info...
• RiverJam is tonight at the US National Whitewater Center, with music by Brother Dege. More info...
• Charlotte Eagles vs. U23 Sounders More info...

Friday, May 24

• If you homeschool, head to the shores of Lake Wylie and the Copperhead Island Specialty Park for Homeschool Family Field Day today 9am-2pm. Registration required. More info...
• Don't miss the Coca-Cola Family Track Walk and Concert this afternoon at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. The fun begins at 2pm. More info...
• Learn about Wildlife and Native Plants this afternoon at 4pm at the Reedy Creek Nature Center. More info...
• Barnes & Noble at Carolina Place hosts Fantastical Suessical Storytime tonight at 7pm with The Lorax. More info...
• Head to Village Park in Kannapolis for their Movies in the Park. Tonight's movie is Wreck it Ralph. More info...

Saturday, May 25

• Don't miss Adventure Landing's Superhero Meet & Greet with Spiderman and Ironman today beginning at 10am. More info...
• Head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center to learn all about Wonderful Weather this morning at 11am. More info...
• Check out Barnes & Noble at Birkdale for Oh The Places You Will Go Storytime this morning at 11am. More info...
• Today is the 9th Annual Family Fun Day at the Gaston County Museum. 11:30am-2:30pm and FREE! More info...
• Learn what lives In a Drop of Water this afternoon at the McDowell Nature Center at 2:30pm. More info...
• See NASCAR Nationwide's History 300 this afternoon at 2:45 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Children 13 and under get in FREE with a paying adult. More info...

Sunday, May 26

• Head to the McDowell Nature Center this afternoon at 1pm for Family Creek Exploration. More info...
• Learn about Not So Scary Snakes this afternoon at 3pm at the Reedy Creek Nature Center. More info...
• It's time again for the Coca-Cola 600 this evening at 6pm at Charlotte Motor Speedway. More info...
• Check out the US National Whitewater Center's Memorial Day Celebration complete with live music and fireworks. More info...

And since it's a holiday weekend...

Monday, May 27

• Head to Symphony Park at Southpark for the Patriot Festival 2013, starting with a 5K, and events through the morning. More info...
• The Spraygrounds open today!!! Open daily 10am-8pm through Labor Day. More info...
• See The World's Funniest Animals today at the Schiele Museum. 10:30am and 2:30pm. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Toledo More info...

Save the Date:
May 31-June 9: Day Out with Thomas @ Tweetsie More info...
June 1: Museum in Motion Festival More info...
June 11-August 6: Regal Summer Movie Express More info...
June 21-23: Meet Dora & Diego @ Tweetsie More info...
July 12-14: Meet SpongeBob & Patrick @ Tweetsie More info...
July 16: The Greatest Journey More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.

In the NIC of Time 2013 - Great Fun, Great Cause!

http://inthenicoftime.org/

Looking for a fun night out that benefits an amazing local organization? Mark your calendars for In the NIC of Time 2013. This event benefits the Cottie & Cake Fund.

From "Cottie & Cake":
"In 2011, the Hampton family set out to create a unique event to bring awareness to the miracles that take place every day in our own community. They wanted to use their story to ask the community to come together and support the Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery at Levine Children’s Hospital (LCH) and the Charlotte Fetal Care Center, both places where the Hampton family witnessed miracles.

2013 will be the 3^rd annual “In the NIC of Time” event, which takes place each year near Kate and Scottie Hampton’s birthday. Thanks to the generosity of hundreds of donors and sponsors, over $125,000 has been raised to date. The proceeds from this event go into The Cottie & Cake Fund, which benefits neonatal care and prenatal research at the Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery at Levine Children’s Hospital and the Charlotte Fetal Care Center, respectively."

This year's event is May 31st at 7pm at the Ritz-Carlton Urban Garden. You can buy your tickets HERE. Come on out and support this awesome organization.

Blessings,
The Buzz

Monday, May 13

• The list has begun...check out our Fall/Winter Consignment Sale page, and let us know which sales we need to add!! More info...
• Sign up today for Kids Bowl Free and your children bowl FREE all summer long (2 games per day). More info...
• Don't miss the Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestra's Spring Concert tonight at 7:30pm at Halton Theater. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Pawtucket More info...

Tuesday, May 14

• Today is a FREE Tuesday by Duke Energy at the Schiele Museum. 4-8pm. More info...
• Ages 4 to 8 are invited to the Kannapolis library at 4pm for their Princess Party. More info...
• Children ages 3 to 9 are invited to the Main Library in Gastonia for Bedtime Math @ Your Library this evening at 7pm. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Pawtucket More info...
• Charlotte Eagles vs. Charleston Battery More info...

Wednesday, May 15

• Enjoy Family Storytime this morning at 10:30am at Imaginon. More info...
• Head to Discovery Place Kids for their Wonderful Wednesday: Going Green with special activities at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Don't miss the Sign Language Program this afternoon at the Scaleybark library at 4pm. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Louisville More info...

Thursday, May 16

• Register by today for the Birkdale Animal Hospital Kids Triathlon Series. Race #2 is on Sunday. More info...
• Don't miss Crafty with Critters this afternoon at 3:30pm at the McDowell Nature Center. More info...
• Discovery Place kids is hosting Family Night at Chick-Fil-a this evening at the Huntersville location. More info...
• RiverJam continues this week at the US National Whitewater Center. Tonight's music from the Tumbleweed Wanderers. More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Louisville More info...

Friday, May 17

• Independence Hill Church in Huntersville sponsors Hearts for Heroes Fun Days today and tomorrow. More info...
• Head to the Charlotte Motor Speedway for the NC Education Lottery 200 tonight at 8pm. Children 13 and under are FREE with a paying adult. More info...
• Don't miss the Red Rose Festival today and tomorrow in Lancaster. More info...
• Pineville Parks & Rec kicks off their Rockin' & Reelin' 2013 Summer Movie and Music Series with The Entertainers\at Pineville Lake Park. More info...
• Check out Indian Trail's 2013 Sunset Series, FREE movies in the park. Tonight's movie is Brave! More info...
• Charlotte Knights vs. Louisville More info...

Saturday, May 18

• Head to downtown Pineville for the kick off of Market Days. 7am-2pm. More info...
• Lace up your shoes for the River Bound Race Series at Fisher Farm Park. More info..., or the YMCA's Run! Ballantyne, More info..., or Free to Breathe Charlotte 5K and Fun Run More info...
• The Charlotte Nature Museum hosts a Fairy Festival today 10am-1pm. More info...
• The Ballantyne Reading Academy hosts a StoryWalk this morning 10-11am. More info...
• Don't miss Waxhaw's SpringFest 2013 today and tomorrow. More info...
• Check out the new exhibit Mammal Safari opening today at the Schiele Museum. More info..
• Lots of fun to be had today at the 2013 Family Festival at Historic Rosedale. 11am-6pm. More info...
• The Latta Plantation Nature Center hosts the Get Outdoors! Play Festival today 11am-3pm. More info...
• Are you a NASCAR Hall of Fame Member? RSVP for the Members-Only Garage Tour at Charlotte Motor Speedway. More info...
• The Charlotte Children's Choir joins with the Charlotte Folk Society for The Great American Folk Song this afternoon at 3pm at Matthews United Methodist Church. More info...
• A better afternoon runner? Lace up your shoes for the Let Me Run Grand Slam 5K at Knights Stadium. More info...
• Head to the Kannapolis library for Stories Under the Stars this evening at 7pm. More info...
• Don't miss the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race tonight at 7:30 at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. More info...

Sunday, May 19

• Probably not overly kid-friendly, but you can lace up your shoes for the Zombie Run this afternoon at the Cabarrus Arena at 12:30pm. More info...
• Head to the Schiele Museum this afternoon to experience Sheepshearing 2013. 1-5pm. More info...
• Learn about Eating the Rainbow this afternoon at 2pm at Discovery Place Kids. More info...
• Don't miss the 8th Annual Festa Italiana today beginning at 1pm at Queens University. More info...

Save the Date:
May 23-25: Food Lion Speedstreet More info...
June 1: Museum in Motion Festival More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.

My Mothers Day Gift to Me...Simplicity!!!

http://www.simplicity-organizers.com/

I gave myself an early Mother's Day gift in the form of the fabulous Simplicity Organizers (truth be told, my sweet mom started me off at Christmas with a gift certificate for a few hours...thanks Mom). Recently awarded Charlotte Magazine's BOB (Best of the Best) award, Simplicity transformed my playroom, the kids bedrooms, the kitchen and disastrous pantry, and my desk space. I love, love, love those spaces in my house now. Yes, there is still clutter (I mean come on, 3 kids under 6, a dog, and all their STUFF), but I have great new systems in place and things are working SO much better and I feel SO less stressed thanks to Anne, Jaime and Katie from Simplicity. If you are looking to de-stress, and de-clutter, look no further than the wonderful team at Simplicity...they ROCK!!!

Happy Mother's Day to all of the moms out there...hope you get spoiled rotten and pampered on Sunday (there's always room for wishful thinking, right?!?!).

Monday, May 6

• Our Summer Camp List is up...have more for us to add? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with great camp names and websites! More info...
• Don't miss a splashing good time at Ray's Splash Planet's Parent and Tot Meet and Greet today 10am-3pm. More info...
• Children ages 7 to 12 are invited to a Kids Bicycle Safety & Educational Rodeo this evening at Sun & Ski Sports Promenade at 6pm. More info...

Tuesday, May 7

• Don't miss the Family Fun Day at Carolina Place Mall today at 11am. More info...
• Head to the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden at Noon to learn about Nature's Way. More info...
• There's another Kids Bicycle Safety & Educational Rodeo this evening for ages 7 to 12 at Madison Central Park at 5pm. More info...
• Starting tonight through Sunday, May 19th, you can be amazed by Traces at the Knight Theatre. More info...

Wednesday, May 8

• Today is National Bike to School Day. Check the link to see if your school is participating. More info...
• If you homeschool, take the students to Make Your Own Hiking Stick today at 10am at the Latta Plantation Nature Center. More info...
• Head to the McDowell Nature Center this afternoon for Geotastic Geocaching. 4:30-6pm. More info...

Thursday, May 9

• Head to the Billy Graham Library for the Stormie Omartian Book Signing this morning, 10-11:30am. More info...
• Don't miss the LEAF Festival in Black Mountain with events today through Sunday. More info...
• Ages 5 to 8 are invited to Winghaven Gardens at 3:30pm to create a Mothers Day Gift. Please register. More info...
• Today through Sunday you can see some amazing swimmers at the 2013 SwimMAC Charlotte Ultraswim at the Mecklenburg Aquatic Center. More info...
• There's another Kids Bicycle Safety & Educational Rodeo this evening for ages 7 to 12 at Queen City Bicycles at 5pm. More info...
• Tell the hubby to be home on time, and head to Moms Night Out at Carolina Place Mall. 6-9pm. More info...
• The US National Whitewater Center hosts their River Jam this evening at 7pm with a River Jam Run at 6:30pm. More info...

Friday, May 10

• Head to the Britax Headquarters in Fort Mill for their FREE Car Seat Checking Station this morning 8-11:30am. More info...
• Don't miss Kannapolis' 34th Annual Village Fest tonight and tomorrow in downtown Kannapolis. More info...
• University City Performing Arts presents My Favorite Things tonight and tomorrow at Halton Theater. More info... 
• Check out NarroWay Productions' A Tribute to Mothers show tonight and tomorrow. More info...

Saturday, May 11

• Lace up your shoes for the 2nd Annual Charlotte Promise Walk for Preeclampsia at Frank Liske Park. More info..., or the Run Wild 5k (and Wild Child Fun Run) in Huntersville. More info...
• Today is National Train Day. Enjoy the fun today at the NC Transportation Museum in Spencer. More info...
• Celebrate Mothers Day at the Garden today and tomorrow, 9am-3pm at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. All moms get in FREE! More info...
• Head to the Hello Huntersville Festival today 10am-2pm. More info...
• Enjoy a Mother's Day celebration with your little one at the Gaston County Museum this morning, 10-11am. More info...
• If you're a gardener, head to Winghaven Gardens today or tomorrow for their Gardeners' Garden Tour. More info...
• Don't miss the Mayfair Arts and Crafts Festival today and tomorrow at University Place. More info...
• Take a Guided Surrey Tour of Uptown Charlotte today at 10am or Noon, or a Haunted Surrey Tour of Uptown Charlotte this evening at 6pm or 8pm. Reservations required. More info...
• Take part in the Big BINGO Bike Ride - Experience Charlotte Without a Windshield today 11am-4pm. More info...
• Charlotte City Ballet presents The Dancing Princesses today at 3pm and 7pm at Fulwood Theater in Matthews. More info...
• Lace up your shoes (and find your neon sweatbands) for the Run Back to the 80s this afternoon at 4pm in Uptown. More info...
• Listen to The Stranger (a Billy Joel tribute band) at Stumptown Park as part of the Matthews Summer Concert & Movie Series. More info...

Sunday, May 12 - Happy Mother's Day

• Lace up your shoes for The Friends Run at Shalom Park at 8am. More info...
• Check out the Epicentre's All About Mom event, today 1-3pm. More info...
• Moms get in FREE at Mothers Day at Ray's Splash Planet today, 1-6pm. More info...
• Head to BikeFEST today in Plaza Midwood, 2-5pm. Kids bicycle and pet parade at 1:30pm. More info...
• Don't miss the Festival of Indian Dances at the Halton Theater at 4pm. More info...

Save the Date:
May 18: Family Festival at Historic Rosedale More info...
May 23-25: Food Lion Speedstreet More info...
June 1: Museum in Motion Festival More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.